Who doesn’t like puppies?

In a story for our syndication partner, MedPageToday, we wrote about a cancer patient who used laughter (and also singing and eating like a pig) as part of his treatment plan. This brings to mind that old saying that “Laughter is the Best Medicine.” Did you know that this concept originated in the Bible, Proverbs 17:22, which says “A cheerful heart is good medicine.”

There is actually medical evidence that humor can have a positive role in cancer and facilitate the interactions between patients and caregivers. One article from a medical journal says:

“The diagnosis of cancer is incredibly stressful, and treatments are arduous. Humor may help to ease the pain, show the human side of the health care team, and help everyone cope. Whether the patient uses humor to lighten the mood of a difficult consultation with their physician, or health care workers use it to help cheer each other through the day, humor and laughter can be valuable tools. Humor can soften the isolation experienced by both patients and staff. When used sensitively, respecting the gravity of the situation, humor can build the connection among the caregiver, patient, and family.”

About a year ago our son and daughter-in-law were honeymooning in Hong Kong. While walking down the street, they passed a pet store where they stumbled upon these doggies in the window, one who was doing what might be called a Cantonese Salsa. They captured the dance on video (below). We hope it makes you laugh or smile.

Mark Boguski, M.D., Ph.D. is on the faculty of Harvard Medical School and is a member of the Society for Participatory Medicine, "a movement in which networked patients shift from being mere passengers to responsible drivers of their health" and in which professional health care providers encourage "empowered patients" and value them as full partners in managing their health and wellness.

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